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Facts About Trauma & Suicide

Trauma is a psychological reaction to a harmful or life-threatening occurrence that is outside the range of normal
experience and beyond control. Those with histories of trauma may be troubled by thoughts of suicide and some
may attempt or complete suicide. Trauma’s impact is insidious, pervasive, life changing, and enduring. It most
affects those vulnerable because of age or other personal factors. It influences responses to future stressors.

Trauma and its side effects are associated with greater suicide risk. A significant number of attempters and
completers have a background of trauma. It makes those affected feel less connected or that they are burdens
to their families and friends. This generates hopelessness and depression, which may produce a desire to die.

What are other suicide risk factors that may interact with trauma?

Serious risk factors that may be affected are a past history of suicidal behavior, existing serious mental illness
(particularly with a co-occurring anxiety or panic disorder), alcohol and substance abuse, marital, family, or
other interpersonal conflict, and a background involving abuse or violence.

Are there population groups may have a higher level of trauma-related suicide risk?

Trauma sufferers with a risk of suicide include self-injurers, those making frequent threats or non-fatal
attempts, veterans and members of the military, physicians, emergency responders, sexual assault victims,
individuals with brain injury, and physically and developmentally disabled persons.

What are some of the early warning signs of suicide risk?

Contact a mental health or medical provider if you encounter or experience any of these behaviors: